Decimator Design: MD-Quad v3

The Decimator MD-QUAD is one of the few cost affective quad-split units on the market currently. Within the Decimator range, the only other product which does this is the Decimator Quad, but it’s output is only composite or SD-SDI – so this is the only unit offering an HD quad-split output we sell.

The quad-split output format can be selected using the small button and rotary control on the unit itself, or more easily via USB using the free Microsoft compatible utility. For a full list of the available output formats, consulate the PDF manual in the media tab of this page. The other functions available via the utility software can be seen by clicking on the thumbnail screen-shots below.

It accepts a wide range of DC input voltages (5-24V) so is suitable for battery powered usage (unlike the Blackmagic-Design mini converter range).

The unit has a quality feel to it, being made from an aluminium extrusion. Approximate dimensions excluding connectors are: 9 x 9 x 2 cm. Unlike the photo, the BNC connectors are now gold-plated.

Settings and firmware updates are made via a USB Control Panel Application

• Low cost miniature (3G/HD/SD)-SDI 4 to 1 Quad Split or 4 to 1 input multiplexer
• Selectable output format in Quad-Split mode
• Low latency buffering for each input allowing non-synchronous inputs
• Linked (3G/HD/SD)-SDI and HDMI outputs
• 4 x (3G/HD/SD)-SDI inputs with auto detection (26 Formats supported in total
• 8-Channel Audio metering for each quadrant with:
• The first two audio groups individually selectable
• Vertical or Horizontal Bars
• AES/EBU, VU, Extended VU, BBC, EBU, DIN and NORDIC Scales
• Bar & Float, Bar only or Float only (Float is not available for MQS serials)
• Transparency adjustment
• Separate Bar and Float Ballistics control
• Adjustable Reference level
• Red, Yellow and Green Range adjustment
• Bar thickness adjustment
• Margin adjustment
• Each quadrant is independent of the others, allowing any 3G/HD/SD format of any frame rate to be displayed simultaneously
• Variable aspect ratios per quadrant
• All 4 inputs can be displayed simultaneously on a single output
• Pass-Through mode allowing any of the 4 inputs to be selected for output
• In Pass-Through mode the selected input is passed through to both the (3G/HD/SD)-SDI and HDMI outputs
• On-Screen 20 character IDs (UMDs) for each input
• A single tallies for each input is available from the GPI
• An extensive selection of user controllable functions via an easy to use rotary encoder for menu selection. LEDs and a push button can then be used for status and control
• USB port for control and updates
• GPI on RJ-45 for remote switching
• Locking DC Power Socket